Itching Inside Ear

Ear itching can be a painful experience, especially during winter. Here are some causes and treatment for the same.

Ashwini Kulkarni Sule

Last Updated: Jun 3, 2018

Ear itching is something which most of us have experienced at some point of time in our lives. There are myriad ear itching causes, which can be as simple as getting water inside the ear or even severe ear infections. The treatment can only be initiated after diagnosing the accurate cause. Itching inside ear can be quite painful at times. However, good news is that more often than not, ear itching can be cured with simple remedies, even at home.

Causes

Infections are often the common cause of itching inside ear. Bacteria or a virus may find several ways to enter your ear and cause itching. Given below are some of the causes of this condition.

Dryness

Often, dryness in the ear is what causes inner ear itching. Some people produce very less sebum or earwax. This little amount is not adequate to keep the ear canal well lubricated. As a result, dryness occurs inside the ear, which gives rise to flaky skin in the interior of the ear. This condition is known as seborrheic dermatitis and eventually leads to inner ear itching.

Impacted Earwax

Excess production of earwax clogs the ear canal. This impacted earwax then traps moisture and creates a conducive habitat for various types of bacteria and other micro organisms. This leads to several infections in the ear. Apart from pus formation and other complications, ear itching is also very common during infections.

Swimmer's Ear

This is yet another common cause of itching inside ear. It occurs when water gets trapped in the ear canal. This trapped water is favorable for the growth of fungi and bacteria, which often leads to infections. Antiseptic drugs can get rid of this problem.

Allergies

Allergies to certain chemicals in the hair care products often cause itchiness in the inner ear. Stopping the use of such products can alleviate this problem. The allergic response can be reduced by the use of certain over the counter drugs.

Remedies

Numerous OTC medications or home remedies can help relieve this condition. While these medications can successfully relieve the symptoms, they may not be effective against itching due to a chronic medical condition.

Over the Counter Drugs

Over the counter drugs like hydrocortisone lotion can effectively stop itching inside ear. It soothes the inner ear, thereby reducing the urge to scratch the ear. If the OTC version of hydrocortisone does not work, then perhaps you should try for prescription strength hydrocortisone.

Home Remedies

Any kind of edible oil cures ear itching effectively. Coconut oil or olive oil is a great ear itching remedy. Warm a spoonful of vegetable oil and pour it in the ear drop by drop using a dropper. Itching should stop almost immediately. Oil also loosens the earwax so that it can be easily removed. Garlic oil is yet another effective home remedy for ear itching. The mode of administering is similar to any vegetable oil.

Rubbing Alcohol

Solution of water and rubbing alcohol is also supposedly effective in curing itching ear. Squirt some solution in the ear with the help of a bulb syringe. Draw excess solution out or allow it to drain out of the ear by resting on the side of itching ear.

Cleaning

Earwax cleaning is helpful if the ear itching is due to accumulation of earwax. However, it is unwise to insert Q-tips in the inner ear. This can cause damage to the eardrum. The best option is to get it cleaned from an expert, so as to avoid any risk to the ear. Squirting water with the help of a bulb is also a good option of cleaning ear. However, it is important to get rid of all the water from the ear in order to prevent the possibility of infections.

Itching inside ear is rarely an issue of concern. However, if it persists even after taking medications or undergoing treatment, then you should perhaps consult an ear specialist who may help you to diagnose the problem and initiate a proper treatment. In order to avoid any kind of ear problem, it is necessary to implement proper hygiene practices to keep your ear clean.